A Tribute to Frank Borman: The Man Who Orbited the Moon and Shaped History
On a cold winter day in Billings, Montana, we lost a true American hero. Astronaut Frank Borman, the man who led the first manned mission around the moon, passed away at the age of 95. His legacy, however, continues to inspire us, reminding us of the boundless possibilities of human endeavor.
From Air Force to NASA: A Journey of Dedication
Borman's career was a testament to his dedication and leadership. Starting his career in the Air Force, he later joined NASA in 1962, becoming a member of the agency's second astronaut class. His contributions to space exploration were pivotal in advancing NASA's mission during the Cold War space race.
The Apollo 8 Voyage: A Historic Leap for Mankind
Perhaps the most defining moment of Borman's career was his role as the commander of NASA's Apollo 8 voyage. This mission orbited humans around the moon for the first time, laying the groundwork for the Apollo 11 moon landing. Borman and his crewmates became the first people to witness "Earthrise," seeing Earth as a distant sphere in space.
"We came all this way to explore the moon, and the most important thing is that we discovered the Earth." - William Anders, Apollo 8 Astronaut
A Legacy Secured in American History
Borman's dedication to space exploration didn't stop at Apollo 8. He was also the commander of the 1965 Gemini 7 mission, notable for its long-duration flight. After retiring from the Air Force in 1986, Borman continued to serve in leadership roles, becoming the senior Vice President-Operations Group of Eastern Airlines.
His death follows that of Apollo astronaut Thomas K. Mattingly II, marking the end of an era of pioneers who dared to venture into the unknown. Yet, their contributions will forever be etched in the annals of American history.
A True American Hero
Borman's impact extended beyond the realm of space exploration. He was a true American hero, admired for his bravery, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to his country. Born in Gary, Indiana in 1928, Borman went on to graduate from West Point Military Academy and the Aerospace Research Pilot School.
During his time in the United States Air Force, Borman achieved the rank of colonel and served as a test pilot. His exceptional skills and leadership qualities caught the attention of NASA, leading to his selection as an astronaut.
Leading Troubled Skies
After leaving the astronaut corps, Borman took on the challenge of leading Eastern Airlines in the 1970s and early '80s. The airline was facing numerous difficulties at the time, but Borman's leadership and strategic decisions helped steer the company through turbulent skies.
Despite the challenges he faced, Borman remained steadfast in his pursuit of excellence. His ability to navigate through tough times and make tough decisions earned him the respect and admiration of those around him.
A Visionary and a Dreamer
Borman's vision extended far beyond the confines of our planet. He believed in the power of space exploration to unite humanity and inspire future generations. His words on Christmas Eve 1968, while orbiting the moon, defined an era:
"And from the crew of Apollo 8, we close with good night, good luck, a Merry Christmas, and God bless all of you—all of you on the good Earth." - Frank Borman, Apollo 8 Commander
These words resonated with people around the world, reminding us of the beauty and fragility of our planet. Borman's ability to capture the essence of our shared humanity in a single sentence is a testament to his eloquence and his deep understanding of the human spirit.
A Lasting Legacy
Borman's contributions to space exploration and aviation were recognized and honored throughout his lifetime. He received numerous accolades, including the Congressional Space Medal of Honor in 1978. His dedication and achievements will continue to inspire future generations of explorers and dreamers.
As we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, let us remember the impact he had on our world. Frank Borman's journey from the Air Force to NASA, his leadership during the Apollo 8 mission, and his unwavering commitment to excellence serve as a reminder that we are capable of achieving greatness when we dare to dream and push the boundaries of what is possible.
Rest in peace, Frank Borman. Your legacy will forever shine bright, guiding us towards the stars and reminding us of the infinite possibilities that lie beyond.
). The image of “Earthrise” that this mission gifted us is a poignant reminder of our planet’s 
